BROWNWOOD, Texas – The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor men's basketball team defeated Howard Payne University 92-80 Thursday evening in Brownwood. The Cru improved to 18-2 on the season and 13-2 in the American Southwest Conference while the Yellow Jackets fell to 6-16 overall and 5-12 in league play.
 
The contest began with a seven-point run by Howard Payne after the first four minutes of even play. UMHB answered with a seven-point run by Josiah Johnson at the 12:06 mark. With seven minutes remaining in the half, the Cru used a 10-point run to gain a 13-point advantage. UMHB continued to inch away, going into the half up 45-28.
 
UMHB started the second half with a seven-point run, creating a 21-point lead at the 17:26 mark. With 12 minutes remaining, Luke feely led the Cru on a seven-point run. Howard Payne answered hitting back-to-back baskets behind the arc, but UMHB followed up with a six-point run led by Ty Prince. The Yellow Jackets continued to fight back in the final minutes, but UMHB held on claiming the 92-80 victory.
 
Prince finished the night leading the Cru with 28 points and 13 rebounds, claiming a double-double. Johnson added 26 points and seven rebounds for UMHB. The Cru totaled 49 rebounds with Gibson Hearne claiming nine boards. Carson Hammons helped to anchor UMHB's offense with five assists.  
 
UMHB returns to action on Saturday, February 12th in contest against Sul Ross State University in Alpine.